What context can I use each word in?
Learn when and how to use these words with these examples!
overcunning
Example
His overcunning nature led to his downfall in the end. [overcunning: adjective]
Example
She thought she could outsmart her opponent, but her overcunning plan ended up being her undoing. [overcunning: noun]
cunning
Example
He used his cunning to get ahead in the business world. [cunning: noun]
Example
She was known for her cunning ability to negotiate deals. [cunning: adjective]
Good things to know
Which word is more common?
Cunning is a more common word than overcunning and is used in a variety of contexts, from describing a clever business strategy to a sly animal. Overcunning is a less common word and may not be familiar to many English speakers.
What’s the difference in the tone of formality between overcunning and cunning?
Both overcunning and cunning can be used in formal and informal contexts, but cunning is more versatile and can be used in a wider range of situations.
